Ingredients List

For the Zucchini Roll-Ups

  • 4 medium zucchini
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon salt (for drawing out moisture)

For the Meat Filling

  • 1 pound (450 g) ground beef or ground turkey
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 ½ cups marinara sauce (divided)
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • ½ teaspoon salt

For the Cheese Mixture

  • 1 cup ricotta cheese
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (divided)
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 tablespoon fresh parsley or basil (optional)

Ingredient Notes and Substitutions

Zucchini should be fresh and firm. Medium-sized zucchini work best because they are easier to slice and roll. Avoid oversized zucchini, as they contain more water and seeds.

Ground beef provides a rich flavor, but ground turkey is an excellent lighter alternative. For a vegetarian option, the meat can be replaced with sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or lentils.

Ricotta cheese creates a creamy texture, while mozzarella adds stretch and melt. Parmesan enhances flavor and depth.

Preparing the Zucchini

Wash and dry the zucchini thoroughly. Using a mandoline slicer or sharp knife, slice the zucchini lengthwise into thin strips, about ⅛ inch thick.

Lay the slices flat and sprinkle lightly with salt. Let them rest for 10 minutes to draw out excess moisture. This step is essential to prevent watery roll-ups.

After resting, pat the zucchini dry using a clean kitchen towel or paper towels.

Cooking the Meat Filling

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook for 2–3 minutes until softened.

Add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant. Add the ground meat and cook until fully browned, breaking it apart as it cooks.

Season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Stir in 1 cup of marinara sauce and simmer for 3–5 minutes. Remove from heat and allow to cool slightly.

Preparing the Cheese Mixture

In a medium bowl, combine ricotta cheese, half of the shredded mozzarella, Parmesan cheese, and fresh herbs if using.

Mix until smooth and evenly combined. This mixture adds creaminess and balances the savory meat filling.

Assembling the Roll-Ups

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a baking dish with olive oil.

Lay a zucchini slice flat on a clean surface. Spread a thin layer of the cheese mixture along the length of the slice. Add a spoonful of the meat mixture on top.

Carefully roll the zucchini from one end to the other and place seam-side down in the baking dish.

Repeat until all zucchini slices are used.

Adding Sauce and Cheese

Spoon the remaining marinara sauce evenly over the roll-ups. This keeps them moist during baking and enhances flavor.

Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese over the top.

Baking Instructions

Cover the baking dish loosely with foil and bake for 25 minutes.

Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10–15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and lightly golden.

Allow the dish to rest for 5–10 minutes before serving.

Texture and Flavor

The zucchini becomes tender while holding its shape. The filling is rich, cheesy, and well-seasoned, with a balanced blend of savory meat and fresh herbs.

The melted cheese creates a beautiful, stretchy topping that makes this dish visually appealing and comforting.

Tips for Best Results

Slice zucchini evenly to ensure consistent cooking.

Avoid overfilling the roll-ups to prevent them from unrolling.

Letting the dish rest after baking helps it set and makes serving easier.

Make-Ahead and Storage

This dish can be assembled a day in advance and stored covered in the refrigerator.

Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days in an airtight container.

Roll-ups can also be frozen before baking. When ready to cook, bake directly from frozen, adding extra time.